A2B-online takes the next step in fleet renewal with vessels 3 and 4
2 November 2026 – A2B-online is taking the next major step in decarbonizing its fleet. Today, the container and shortsea specialist announces the expansion of its successful fleet renewal program with an order for a third and fourth vessel. These state-of-the-art ships will be constructed by the renowned China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyard.
Sustainable innovation for a greener future
With the expansion of this newbuild series, A2B-online continues to drive its sustainability strategy forward. Built with the future in mind, the vessels are equipped with the latest technologies designed to drastically cut CO₂ emissions. Just like the A2B Vision and A2B Progress — the first two newly built ships set to enter service soon — these new additions will feature an advanced multi-fuel methanol propulsion system, shore-power connectivity, and battery capacity for zero-emission operations in ports and inland waterways..
Strategic capacity expansion
The decision to expand the series to four vessels underlines A2B-online’s long-term vision. Through the phased introduction of these new ships, the shortsea specialist will progressively and efficiently replace its older tonnage. Thanks to the highly efficient design — developed in partnership with the Hamburg-based design and engineering firm Technolog Services — the newbuild vessels offer significantly more capacity with their double intake compared to the current fleet, without an exceptional increase in overall length.
International partnership
The contract for the construction of the third and fourth vessel has been officially awarded to China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyard. Located in Weihai (Shandong, China), the shipyard is a global leader in constructing advanced dual-fuel vessels. Following delivery, these ships will be deployed across the strategic shortsea routes connecting Moerdijk with the UK ports of Tilbury, Immingham, and Teesport.
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A new milestone for our fleet: The A2B Progress has been launched!
Today we celebrate a special moment: our second newbuild vessel, the A2B Progress, has touched the water for the first time at the SEDEF shipyard in Tuzla (Turkey). Following the earlier success of her sister ship, the A2B Vision, this launch brings our vision for a modern and sustainable fleet another major step closer.
Launch of strategic new liner service Moerdijk - Tilbury
1 September 2026 – Official launch of the new connection: A2B-online expands its Shortsea network with the introduction of a new liner service connecting the Port of Moerdijk and the Port of Tilbury. The inaugural sailing departed Moerdijk on Monday, August 31, docking in Tilbury on Tuesday morning, September 1.
New Liner Service between Moerdijk and Tilbury
1 July 2026 – A2B-online today announced a strategic realignment of its liner services. The long-standing and highly successful connection between Moerdijk and Thamesport will make way for a new liner service between Moerdijk and Tilbury. The inaugural sailing is scheduled to depart from Moerdijk on 31 August, arriving in Tilbury on 1 September.
Important updates regarding truck road tax of 1 July 2026
Starting 1 July 2026, changes regarding road tax and kilometre charges for commercial freight transport will come into effect in both the Netherlands and Flanders. A2B-online would like to inform you about this new regulation and its impact on our transport operations.
The results of our Customer Satisfaction Survey 2026 are in
9 June 2026 – We recently asked a large number of our customers and partners to share their experience through our Customer Satisfaction Survey (CSS). To everyone who took the time to complete the questionnaire: thank you very much!
Why your feedback helps us
Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us. It gives a clear picture of what we are doing well and provides key insights into areas where we can further improve our service delivery. Behind the scenes, we will be working hard with your results and suggestions over the coming period to make our service even better.
Insights from your Tops & Tips
Our customers have rated our professionalism, the pleasant collaboration, and overall service quality as absolute strengths. Alongside these lovely compliments, there are clear opportunities for growth. Feedback indicated that our customers would like more information regarding our customs services, and there are still questions following the transition to our new customer portal.
Personal follow-up for specific queries
We have read all the responses with great care. Did you leave specific comments, requests, or points that require extra attention? You can rest assured that we will contact you personally about these in the coming period.
Building a successful partnership
Your input motivates us to stay sharp. We continue to build strong relationships and do our utmost to earn your trust every single day! Here’s to an even better partnership ahead!